The ancient city of Ibadan has been plunged into mourning following the passing of its 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who transitioned to the ancestral realm in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025—just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and barely 12 months after his historic coronation. The late monarch, whose reign ranks among the shortest in modern Ibadan history, had been formally presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, following the demise of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun (Alli Okunmade II), who joined the ancestors in March 2024 at 81.
Key Details:
✔ Short Reign: Ruled for only 12 months after coronation (July 2024–July 2025)
✔ Birth-Death Proximity: Died 48 hours after 90th birthday (born July 5, 1935)
✔ Predecessor: Succeeded Oba Lekan Balogun, who died in March 2024 at 81
✔ Ascension Path: Rose from Balogun Olubadan chieftaincy rank
More details later…
